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Jack Bryant #2
Dark Money
Jackson Bryant, the millionaire plaintiff lawyer who turned to pro bono work in Dead Peasants , is caught up in the collision of money and politics when he receives a call from his old army buddy Walt Frazier. Walt needs his assistance in evaluating security for Texas Governor Rob Lardner at a Halloween costume fundraiser thrown by one of the nation's richest Republican billionaires at his mansion in Fort Worth. Miriam Van Zandt is the best marksman among The Alamo Defenders, an anti-government militia group in West Texas. She attends the fundraiser dressed as a cat burglar--wounds the governor and murders the host's brother, another Republican billionaire. She is shot in the leg but manages to escape. Jack is appointed special prosecutor and must call on the Texas DPS SWAT team to track Van Zandt and attack The Alamo Defenders' compound in a lonely part of West Texas. Van Zandt's father, founder of the Defenders, is killed in the attack and Miriam is left in a coma. The authorities declare victory and close the case-but Jack knows better. The person behind the Halloween massacre has yet to be caught. When Walt and the protective detail are sued by the fundraiser host and the widow of the dead man, Jack follows the dark money of political contributions from the Cayman Islands to Washington to Eastern Europe, New York and New Orleans to track the real killer and absolve his friend and the Protective Detail of responsibility for the massacre. Dark Money is a thriller, a mystery and an expose of the corruption of money in politics caused by the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United.
430 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2015
43 people are currently reading
681 people want to read
About the author
Larry D. Thompson
8 books27 followersLarry D. Thompson is a managing partner of the Houston trial firm he founded. He is the proud father of three grown children and admiring brother of the late author Tommy Thompson. He lives in Houston, Texas"
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 18, 2016
Halloween parties are fun … right? Well, you may want to be thankful you weren’t invited to this one. Walt Frazier, part of Texas Governor Lardner’s protective detail, brought in additional security for this Halloween party / Republican fund raiser event. The event is expected to pull in pledges in excess of a hundred million. Jackson (Jack) Bryant is Walt’s former army buddy. Walt calls him because he’s got an excellent eye for detail. With the attendants being the very elite; politicians, and Senator Sinclair, security precautions are necessary.
Even with the heightened security, Miriam Van Zandt manages, with the help from an insider, to get into the party. She’s dressed as a cat burglar. When the timing is right, she makes her move, killing one of the guards and Edward Hale and injuring the Governor. Another guard manages to wound her. She makes it back to her car and to a motel where she can clean her wound and alter her appearance. She’s a marksman and daughter of the founder of The Alamo Defenders, a militia group and very anti-government.
What a great beginning. The reader is given so much information, but yet what we don’t know is just as intriguing. In Texas, people are allowed to carry weapons. Add to that balloons popping, Annie Oakley firing her rifle (blanks), pirates with swords, and vampires with knives and you have a security detail nightmare. The plot is plausible and the action impressive and fast-paced. It becomes a ‘follow the money’ investigation with the story being told from various points of view. Rating: 4 out of 5.
Even with the heightened security, Miriam Van Zandt manages, with the help from an insider, to get into the party. She’s dressed as a cat burglar. When the timing is right, she makes her move, killing one of the guards and Edward Hale and injuring the Governor. Another guard manages to wound her. She makes it back to her car and to a motel where she can clean her wound and alter her appearance. She’s a marksman and daughter of the founder of The Alamo Defenders, a militia group and very anti-government.
What a great beginning. The reader is given so much information, but yet what we don’t know is just as intriguing. In Texas, people are allowed to carry weapons. Add to that balloons popping, Annie Oakley firing her rifle (blanks), pirates with swords, and vampires with knives and you have a security detail nightmare. The plot is plausible and the action impressive and fast-paced. It becomes a ‘follow the money’ investigation with the story being told from various points of view. Rating: 4 out of 5.
December 1, 2017
Jack Bryant has made his millions and now works as a Pro Bono lawyer. Walt Frazier who saved him in Desert Storm has asked Jack to help at a fund raiser in Ft Worth on Halloween where the governor is scheduled to attend. Walt is in charge of the detail. Jack comes to help and what a nightmare it is with everyone in costume and some carrying guns. The assassin shows up as a cat burglar. She does exactly what she was hired to do. The governor seems to have been the target but he lives and the billionaire brother of the host is killed. Did she make a mistake and miss her target? Walt and his team leave to take the governor to the hospital as soon as they can get him out the door. Then they find themselves being sued for not protecting the others. Jack finally decides that the way to solve this is to follow the money. Many twists and turns to solve the crime.
June 30, 2019
DARK MONEY is the perfect novel, a great story wrapped around great characters. Mr. Thompson makes only one mistake. He characterizes DARK MONEY as a legal thriller. Mr. Thompson sells himself short. As one who writes legal and political thrillers, I can tell potential readers of DARK MONEY that it is as much a terrific and timely political thriller as it is a terrific legal thriller. DARK MONEY is a wonderful blend of reality and fiction. Readers of legal and political thrillers who haven't yet discovered Mr. Thompson are in for a real treat. This is my first Thompson novel. It won't be my last.
June 15, 2017
10th Mountain Whiskey
These genre of book is not part of my reading list. Dark Money was a great story with my highest recommendation. I loved it from start to finish. I am going to have to get more of this series from Larry Thompson. Being familiar with 10th Mountain Whiskey, I loved those two incidents. The mystery of "who done it" kept my interest throughout. I look forward to the next thriller. Tom Duhs USMC (Ret.)
These genre of book is not part of my reading list. Dark Money was a great story with my highest recommendation. I loved it from start to finish. I am going to have to get more of this series from Larry Thompson. Being familiar with 10th Mountain Whiskey, I loved those two incidents. The mystery of "who done it" kept my interest throughout. I look forward to the next thriller. Tom Duhs USMC (Ret.)
January 8, 2019
Great Story
Thoroughly enjoyed Mr Thompson’s book! The plot was well developed. Excellent discretions which helped understand how trial lawyers can collect data. Also great discussions on police and military tactics and tools. I enjoyed his writing style.
Thoroughly enjoyed Mr Thompson’s book! The plot was well developed. Excellent discretions which helped understand how trial lawyers can collect data. Also great discussions on police and military tactics and tools. I enjoyed his writing style.
January 28, 2018
Excellent Read
I am hard to please when it comes to books but this book was exciting, interesting, and very enjoyable. I look forward to reading other books by Mr. Thompson!
I am hard to please when it comes to books but this book was exciting, interesting, and very enjoyable. I look forward to reading other books by Mr. Thompson!
May 26, 2018
Political thriller
Well written political crime thriller, great plot. The book had had a couple of plots that blended together and made it very intriguing.
Well written political crime thriller, great plot. The book had had a couple of plots that blended together and made it very intriguing.
August 10, 2019
Review
This book was written to be informative as well as interesting. I recommend reading it highly. Easy reading, sometimes to descriptive in details but certainly worth the read!
This book was written to be informative as well as interesting. I recommend reading it highly. Easy reading, sometimes to descriptive in details but certainly worth the read!
December 29, 2019
It was a good read.
Ending seemed rushed
Ending seemed rushed
October 21, 2021
Mr Thompson knows his stuff
I enjoyed this book. Makes you question where our judicial system is heading. I think there is quite a bit of truth in this book.
I enjoyed this book. Makes you question where our judicial system is heading. I think there is quite a bit of truth in this book.
January 7, 2026
The book keeps you on your toes. It takes two almost completely separate stories and combines them into one with an unexpected ending.
March 8, 2016
Larry D. Thompson in his new book, “Dark Money” published by Story Merchant Book gives us another adventure with Jack Bryant.
From the back cover: Jackson Bryant, the millionaire plaintiff lawyer who turned to pro bono work in Dead Peasants, is caught up in the collision of money and politics when he receives a call from his old army buddy Walt Frazier. Walt needs his assistance in evaluating security for Texas Governor Rob Lardner at a Halloween costume fundraiser thrown by one of the nation’s richest Republican billionaires at his mansion in Fort Worth.
Miriam Van Zandt is the best marksman among The Alamo Defenders, an anti-government militia group in West Texas. She attends the fundraiser dressed as a cat burglar–wounds the governor and murders the host’s brother, another Republican billionaire. She is shot in the leg but manages to escape.
Jack is appointed special prosecutor and must call on the Texas DPS SWAT team to track Van Zandt and attack The Alamo Defenders’ compound in a lonely part of West Texas. Van Zandt’s father, founder of the Defenders, is killed in the attack and Miriam is left in a coma. The authorities declare victory and close the case-but Jack knows better. The person behind the Halloween massacre has yet to be caught. When Walt and the protective detail are sued by the fundraiser host and the widow of the dead man, Jack follows the dark money of political contributions from the Cayman Islands to Washington to Eastern Europe, New York and New Orleans to track the real killer and absolve his friend and the Protective Detail of responsibility for the massacre.Dark Money is a thriller, a mystery and an expose of the corruption of money in politics caused by the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United.
“dark money” is large donations made to a special fund set up under Section 501 (c)(4) of the Revenue Code. Politicians can get millions and even billions of dollars through this means. The Texas Governor goes to a Halloween costume party, is wounded in an assassination attempt while the host’s brother is murdered. Jack’s friend and the Governor’s Protective Detail are sued. Jack gets involved to absolve his friend of blame and has to trace the “Dark Money” that the Governor had. Mr. Thompson has given us one exciting book. An action, adventure, mystery, and a thriller as Jack has to investigate quite a few shady deals and underhanded backstabbing to reveal the truth. I do not recommend you drink coffee while reading this book as there is more than enough excitement to keep you going. Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this book as you will want to finish it before going to bed. “Dark Money” is an exciting adventure from start to finish.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Pump Up Your Book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Jackson Bryant, the millionaire plaintiff lawyer who turned to pro bono work in Dead Peasants, is caught up in the collision of money and politics when he receives a call from his old army buddy Walt Frazier. Walt needs his assistance in evaluating security for Texas Governor Rob Lardner at a Halloween costume fundraiser thrown by one of the nation’s richest Republican billionaires at his mansion in Fort Worth.
Miriam Van Zandt is the best marksman among The Alamo Defenders, an anti-government militia group in West Texas. She attends the fundraiser dressed as a cat burglar–wounds the governor and murders the host’s brother, another Republican billionaire. She is shot in the leg but manages to escape.
Jack is appointed special prosecutor and must call on the Texas DPS SWAT team to track Van Zandt and attack The Alamo Defenders’ compound in a lonely part of West Texas. Van Zandt’s father, founder of the Defenders, is killed in the attack and Miriam is left in a coma. The authorities declare victory and close the case-but Jack knows better. The person behind the Halloween massacre has yet to be caught. When Walt and the protective detail are sued by the fundraiser host and the widow of the dead man, Jack follows the dark money of political contributions from the Cayman Islands to Washington to Eastern Europe, New York and New Orleans to track the real killer and absolve his friend and the Protective Detail of responsibility for the massacre.Dark Money is a thriller, a mystery and an expose of the corruption of money in politics caused by the Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United.
“dark money” is large donations made to a special fund set up under Section 501 (c)(4) of the Revenue Code. Politicians can get millions and even billions of dollars through this means. The Texas Governor goes to a Halloween costume party, is wounded in an assassination attempt while the host’s brother is murdered. Jack’s friend and the Governor’s Protective Detail are sued. Jack gets involved to absolve his friend of blame and has to trace the “Dark Money” that the Governor had. Mr. Thompson has given us one exciting book. An action, adventure, mystery, and a thriller as Jack has to investigate quite a few shady deals and underhanded backstabbing to reveal the truth. I do not recommend you drink coffee while reading this book as there is more than enough excitement to keep you going. Give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this book as you will want to finish it before going to bed. “Dark Money” is an exciting adventure from start to finish.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Pump Up Your Book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
February 28, 2017
New author
I got this book from the author, and was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed it very much, it was well written, the characters were fully developed and it keep you on your toes.
I got this book from the author, and was pleasantly surprised. I enjoyed it very much, it was well written, the characters were fully developed and it keep you on your toes.
February 29, 2016
After a successful career as a trial attorney, Jack Bryant retires to his hometown of Fort Worth and opens up a pro bono practice out of a motorhome. He expects to help poor people with their legal issues, but nothing prepares him for what happens when The Alamo Defenders, a West Texas anti-government militia group wages a murderous attack at a Halloween themed political fundraiser event. Jack's ensuing investigation exposes the wide corruption of money in politics that will put Jack in a great deal of danger.
Dark Money is a riveting legal thriller that will captivate the reader from the start, and keep them sitting on the edge of their seat until the surprising conclusion. Author Larry D. Thompson utilizes his extensive professional experience as a trial attorney to weave a gritty tale written in the third person narrative that follows attorney Jack Bryant when he is appointed special prosecutor after a deadly attack at a political fundraising event by a West Texas anti-government militia group opens up a huge can of worms as he investigates and uncovers the accumulation of "dark money" (large political donations set up in a special fund governed under Section 501 (c) (4) of the Revenue Code via the US Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United, while exposing the widespread corruption in politics.
This fast paced, action filled legal thriller easily engages the reader with a mixture of murder plots, investigative twists and turns, suspense and riveting courtroom drama. In reading Dark Money, the reader is transported into the middle of this gripping tale where they will learn about chilling true-to-life corruption in politics that is simply mind-numbing and will give them goosebumps.
With an intriguing cast of characters; witty dialogue; dramatic interactions; and a complex storyline that has just enough courtroom drama to satisfy legal eagles, while providing plenty of corruption, politics, murder and mystery that will easily keep the reader in suspense until the final piece of the puzzle clicks into place in a surprising ending; Dark Money is a thoroughly powerful, compelling, and chilling legal thriller that you won't be able to put down!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Dark Money is a riveting legal thriller that will captivate the reader from the start, and keep them sitting on the edge of their seat until the surprising conclusion. Author Larry D. Thompson utilizes his extensive professional experience as a trial attorney to weave a gritty tale written in the third person narrative that follows attorney Jack Bryant when he is appointed special prosecutor after a deadly attack at a political fundraising event by a West Texas anti-government militia group opens up a huge can of worms as he investigates and uncovers the accumulation of "dark money" (large political donations set up in a special fund governed under Section 501 (c) (4) of the Revenue Code via the US Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United, while exposing the widespread corruption in politics.
This fast paced, action filled legal thriller easily engages the reader with a mixture of murder plots, investigative twists and turns, suspense and riveting courtroom drama. In reading Dark Money, the reader is transported into the middle of this gripping tale where they will learn about chilling true-to-life corruption in politics that is simply mind-numbing and will give them goosebumps.
With an intriguing cast of characters; witty dialogue; dramatic interactions; and a complex storyline that has just enough courtroom drama to satisfy legal eagles, while providing plenty of corruption, politics, murder and mystery that will easily keep the reader in suspense until the final piece of the puzzle clicks into place in a surprising ending; Dark Money is a thoroughly powerful, compelling, and chilling legal thriller that you won't be able to put down!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author / publisher in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Partners In Crime Virtual Book Tours.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
May 27, 2016
Fascinating and intriguing. I didn’t have a vague idea who was behind it or why the shooting happened until about 80%. This story has likeable characters (Jack, Walt, Jack’s son, trousers and his owner), characters you root to get caught (the fundraiser, the hale’s) and some that put you on the fence (miriam). We get entertained, put on the edge of the seat as the twists come about, and learn so many things about politics and greed. The idea of those PACs wow. That blew me away and what lengths people go to for money and power is just mindblowing.
The story has you learn about Jack and who he is. You see him loyal, kind, fierce, smart and crafty. You see how he helps Walt and keep him from being lost in many ways. You see him go after the case with gusto and uncover so many things about politics, greed and power. That fundraiser just words can’t describe the money hungry greed and how power hungry he was. We get a look at those in a militant like compound where they believe they will be like Waco and see what they think and how they survive.
Miriam at first she is cold and calculating. Still is in a way at the end but you understand after her upbringing. You want to see her punished but feel bad for her. She just was raised in a different way than others and this is all she knows so it is sad.
The traversing between states and connecting the past and what is happening now together is a delicate fine line that Larry Thompson has done wonderfully. He has each character and their pasts count and come into play even if in a small way as they unravel the mystery thriller as to who was behind the shooting and why that keeps you on your toes and edge of the seat. You are given enough information about the situation, the people and the surroundings to get involved and intrigued but not enough to figure out what is next so you keep diving in hoping to figure out why shoot the governor, Mr. Hale and the fundraiser but with all the secrets that are revealed and depth of the book and situation you never quite are able to figure out everything. A well crafted story to keep you on your toes as the danger ratchets up as more of the mystery is peeled away like an onion and you just can’t put down the story hoping to see Jack figure out the who wanted this to happen and why. Look forward to more Jack Bryant stories in the future.
The story has you learn about Jack and who he is. You see him loyal, kind, fierce, smart and crafty. You see how he helps Walt and keep him from being lost in many ways. You see him go after the case with gusto and uncover so many things about politics, greed and power. That fundraiser just words can’t describe the money hungry greed and how power hungry he was. We get a look at those in a militant like compound where they believe they will be like Waco and see what they think and how they survive.
Miriam at first she is cold and calculating. Still is in a way at the end but you understand after her upbringing. You want to see her punished but feel bad for her. She just was raised in a different way than others and this is all she knows so it is sad.
The traversing between states and connecting the past and what is happening now together is a delicate fine line that Larry Thompson has done wonderfully. He has each character and their pasts count and come into play even if in a small way as they unravel the mystery thriller as to who was behind the shooting and why that keeps you on your toes and edge of the seat. You are given enough information about the situation, the people and the surroundings to get involved and intrigued but not enough to figure out what is next so you keep diving in hoping to figure out why shoot the governor, Mr. Hale and the fundraiser but with all the secrets that are revealed and depth of the book and situation you never quite are able to figure out everything. A well crafted story to keep you on your toes as the danger ratchets up as more of the mystery is peeled away like an onion and you just can’t put down the story hoping to see Jack figure out the who wanted this to happen and why. Look forward to more Jack Bryant stories in the future.
December 7, 2016
Thanks to the author I understand now better what happened in America the last 15 years. The surge of this neo-Gilded economic social and philosophical Age is scary. Understanding where all this comes from is important for any citizen who considers him/herself well informed.
I specially enjoyed that for once I was properly explained what happened in the last 2 mid term election. I never understood the Tea Party as a grass roots movement but I had not been properly informed where all that came from. It was hard to understand why Conservative American had m over so much to the right as much as it was hard to understand how conservatives had gone so crazy in the last decade.
Now, let's be clear, there is large and unnecessary amount of Liberal non-sense on this book, the author clearly picks sides and you are going to have to fish for the ideas in bast sea of empty ideology. (I think that is the only important problem of the book). Now, let's be clear, the facts are good, there is a huge job in research behind the data and you only need to scratch the liberal surface to be able to gasp the important ideas that are shared with you. And trust me the facts that are presented are very important to know of any informed citizen.
I hope I get to read in 5 years, hopefully not 9, a proper book about Trump¡s presidency. I bet The cook brothers were as shocked as everybody else the election night. i wonder how are they going to work with Trump. As much as Trump is about confrontation, I'm pretty sure they are going to figure out a way to work together, so it's going to be ugly.
I had really high hopes Trump could be stopped on Mid Terms. After reading this book I have serious doubts that it's even remotely possible to do so.
Finally, yes, I do understand that Conservative Billionaires are the ones that have taking the biggest stands in other to gain control of the Republican Party and eventually the Nation, but I had enjoyed to read about the other side of the coin.
In the recent years democrats have also move to the other extreme of the aisle and they are also going nuts. Who is behind that?. Who are the liberal billionaires? And what do they have to win by staying behind the Democratic Party? What's the real role of Silicon Valley on the electoral process?. I would have loved to know about this.
I specially enjoyed that for once I was properly explained what happened in the last 2 mid term election. I never understood the Tea Party as a grass roots movement but I had not been properly informed where all that came from. It was hard to understand why Conservative American had m over so much to the right as much as it was hard to understand how conservatives had gone so crazy in the last decade.
Now, let's be clear, there is large and unnecessary amount of Liberal non-sense on this book, the author clearly picks sides and you are going to have to fish for the ideas in bast sea of empty ideology. (I think that is the only important problem of the book). Now, let's be clear, the facts are good, there is a huge job in research behind the data and you only need to scratch the liberal surface to be able to gasp the important ideas that are shared with you. And trust me the facts that are presented are very important to know of any informed citizen.
I hope I get to read in 5 years, hopefully not 9, a proper book about Trump¡s presidency. I bet The cook brothers were as shocked as everybody else the election night. i wonder how are they going to work with Trump. As much as Trump is about confrontation, I'm pretty sure they are going to figure out a way to work together, so it's going to be ugly.
I had really high hopes Trump could be stopped on Mid Terms. After reading this book I have serious doubts that it's even remotely possible to do so.
Finally, yes, I do understand that Conservative Billionaires are the ones that have taking the biggest stands in other to gain control of the Republican Party and eventually the Nation, but I had enjoyed to read about the other side of the coin.
In the recent years democrats have also move to the other extreme of the aisle and they are also going nuts. Who is behind that?. Who are the liberal billionaires? And what do they have to win by staying behind the Democratic Party? What's the real role of Silicon Valley on the electoral process?. I would have loved to know about this.
Read
February 2, 2016My Review Rating Template
Loved it; perfect, would read it again *****
Loved it, would recommend it to all readers; minor issues ****
Liked it, would recommend it to genre readers, editing issues ***
Didn't grab me, characters, plot, editing issues **
Couldn't finish*
I have volunteered to write an unbiased review of Dark Money.
Dark Money Rating: ****
When wearing my author hat, I'm a tough reader to please. At the same time, it is more difficult to criticize another writer's novel in a review. I know of the struggle to get everything perfect. At least, that's true for authors whose goal is to grab the reader from page one and maintain that grip to the last page. Larry D. Thompson is one of those amazing authors.
Summary: Dark Money delivers an intriguing plot surrounding Jack's struggle to defend (in court) a post-Iraq war buddy suffering from PTSD. Walt is accused of incompetence in providing protection to Edward Hale, murdered at a fund raising event. As Jack and his team maneuver through the murky underworld of corrupt politics and New Orleans's darker side, he risks his life to reveal the truth.
Dark Money is rich with a variety of characters and settings. I felt connected to the main characters, a full range from a lovable hero to my imaginary evil sister. Thompson's gift for description allowed me to walk into scenes of mayhem and murder, comfy family gatherings and bar room banter. I enjoyed the full range of intense plot movement with a good balance of character building and plot development. What I enjoyed most is that I couldn't predict the outcome, the whodunit. I had my suspicions, which added to the thirst to turn the page. When I thought I knew Jack's next move, a twist threw me a curve. Loved it.
And the book cover is fantastic.
My one criticism is regarding the great number of characters. There were times I was lost when trying to recall who was who. If there had been a glossary of characters and their role, it would have made the reading flow more easily. Those interruptions were a bit frustrating.
Even so, I would recommend Dark Money to all readers, regardless of their reading genre preference.
Thank you, Larry Thompson, for the honor in reading and reviewing Dark Money.
Loved it; perfect, would read it again *****
Loved it, would recommend it to all readers; minor issues ****
Liked it, would recommend it to genre readers, editing issues ***
Didn't grab me, characters, plot, editing issues **
Couldn't finish*
I have volunteered to write an unbiased review of Dark Money.
Dark Money Rating: ****
When wearing my author hat, I'm a tough reader to please. At the same time, it is more difficult to criticize another writer's novel in a review. I know of the struggle to get everything perfect. At least, that's true for authors whose goal is to grab the reader from page one and maintain that grip to the last page. Larry D. Thompson is one of those amazing authors.
Summary: Dark Money delivers an intriguing plot surrounding Jack's struggle to defend (in court) a post-Iraq war buddy suffering from PTSD. Walt is accused of incompetence in providing protection to Edward Hale, murdered at a fund raising event. As Jack and his team maneuver through the murky underworld of corrupt politics and New Orleans's darker side, he risks his life to reveal the truth.
Dark Money is rich with a variety of characters and settings. I felt connected to the main characters, a full range from a lovable hero to my imaginary evil sister. Thompson's gift for description allowed me to walk into scenes of mayhem and murder, comfy family gatherings and bar room banter. I enjoyed the full range of intense plot movement with a good balance of character building and plot development. What I enjoyed most is that I couldn't predict the outcome, the whodunit. I had my suspicions, which added to the thirst to turn the page. When I thought I knew Jack's next move, a twist threw me a curve. Loved it.
And the book cover is fantastic.
My one criticism is regarding the great number of characters. There were times I was lost when trying to recall who was who. If there had been a glossary of characters and their role, it would have made the reading flow more easily. Those interruptions were a bit frustrating.
Even so, I would recommend Dark Money to all readers, regardless of their reading genre preference.
Thank you, Larry Thompson, for the honor in reading and reviewing Dark Money.
January 26, 2016
This novel got my attention. Not only is it a well written legal thriller but it is on a subject matter about which every American should have concern.
This novel uncovers so many dark areas, it is hard to know where to start. The main issue is how politicians can accumulate great amounts of “dark money.” Since the recent Supreme Court decision regarding Citizens United, large donations can be made to a special fund set up under Section 501 (c)(4) of the Revenue Code. The donations are confidential. At least 51% of the donations are supposed to go to social action issues, but those can be tv adds targeting certain politicians about their votes or some other issue. Politicians get millions and even billions of dollars through this means.
To inform us about this concern, Thompson has crafted an excellent novel featuring Jack Bryant. Having made his fortune as a trial lawyer he now does pro bono work out of an RV. His friend and former war buddy, Walt, asks for Jack's help. Walt is with the Texas Department of Public Safety and his detail must protect the governor at a costumed fund raiser where open carry guns are encouraged. A wealthy contributor is killed during the event and Jack is later called in to help protect the DPS from a lawsuit. The only way he can do that is to find out who financed the assassin.
In the course of that investigation, we readers are involved in some additional dark issues. One is PTSD. Walt has it from his army days and it was interesting reading about that. Another issue was an anti-government militia group in West Texas. I knew such groups existed and I found Thompson's writing about it very interesting and informative.
The subject of the plot is great. I found the writing and plot construction superb. The characters were well crafted. Not only is this a very entertaining book but it is very informative on an issue that is timely. I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
This novel uncovers so many dark areas, it is hard to know where to start. The main issue is how politicians can accumulate great amounts of “dark money.” Since the recent Supreme Court decision regarding Citizens United, large donations can be made to a special fund set up under Section 501 (c)(4) of the Revenue Code. The donations are confidential. At least 51% of the donations are supposed to go to social action issues, but those can be tv adds targeting certain politicians about their votes or some other issue. Politicians get millions and even billions of dollars through this means.
To inform us about this concern, Thompson has crafted an excellent novel featuring Jack Bryant. Having made his fortune as a trial lawyer he now does pro bono work out of an RV. His friend and former war buddy, Walt, asks for Jack's help. Walt is with the Texas Department of Public Safety and his detail must protect the governor at a costumed fund raiser where open carry guns are encouraged. A wealthy contributor is killed during the event and Jack is later called in to help protect the DPS from a lawsuit. The only way he can do that is to find out who financed the assassin.
In the course of that investigation, we readers are involved in some additional dark issues. One is PTSD. Walt has it from his army days and it was interesting reading about that. Another issue was an anti-government militia group in West Texas. I knew such groups existed and I found Thompson's writing about it very interesting and informative.
The subject of the plot is great. I found the writing and plot construction superb. The characters were well crafted. Not only is this a very entertaining book but it is very informative on an issue that is timely. I highly recommend it. You won't be disappointed.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
February 16, 2017
What a great book!! I loved the intrigue of the political side of it as well as Jack Bryant and Walt Frazier, former Afghan soldiers. I really liked the plot, the how the storyline evolved and the reality of the characters and how they were portrayed in this book. It gave you an inside look at the political arena of fundraising and the greediness of certain individuals!! Looking forward to reading more from this author!!
March 31, 2016
Book Two of the Jack Bryant Thriller series.. Being a retired personal injury lawyer and very wealthy, he becomes involved in investigating a shooting. It happened during the Republican, campaign fundraiser.
The fundraiser is a costume affair and the the people are urged to "carry". The security people are not in favor of this.
A well written book that will have you turning the pages quickly. Bryant fights against corruption.He's out for the guy that isn't known or doesn't have much. He's out to get the corrupt and those that go after the little guy for their own illegal gains.So Jack is going after the one who attempted to kill the Governor and leaves a billionaire dead. He's also wanting to find where the money to pay for this assassination attempt came from.The book is not only a mystery, detective story but it shows light on the political corruption in America. Corruption and dark dealings eventually come to light. It may take a while but they will come out. There is so much corruption in this day and age, not just in politics but every where. The author wrote a story that is full of twists and turns. It's a story of how complex and dark life can be. Lots of excitement, suspense,and mystery.It's set at a fast pace but not so fast that you can't keep up with it. Just right. If you like detective stories that have that added punch, you'll love this one.
I received a complimentary copy of DARK MONEY from the author and PUYB in exchange for my unbiased review. No other compensation took place.
The fundraiser is a costume affair and the the people are urged to "carry". The security people are not in favor of this.
A well written book that will have you turning the pages quickly. Bryant fights against corruption.He's out for the guy that isn't known or doesn't have much. He's out to get the corrupt and those that go after the little guy for their own illegal gains.So Jack is going after the one who attempted to kill the Governor and leaves a billionaire dead. He's also wanting to find where the money to pay for this assassination attempt came from.The book is not only a mystery, detective story but it shows light on the political corruption in America. Corruption and dark dealings eventually come to light. It may take a while but they will come out. There is so much corruption in this day and age, not just in politics but every where. The author wrote a story that is full of twists and turns. It's a story of how complex and dark life can be. Lots of excitement, suspense,and mystery.It's set at a fast pace but not so fast that you can't keep up with it. Just right. If you like detective stories that have that added punch, you'll love this one.
I received a complimentary copy of DARK MONEY from the author and PUYB in exchange for my unbiased review. No other compensation took place.
April 29, 2016
FTC: I received a free copy of this book from PUYB in exchange for my honest review. I received no other compensation and the opinions expressed in this review are one hundred percent true and my own.
Dark Money by Larry D. Thompson was an interesting book, to say the least. This book has to do with politics which is very ironic if you ask me. I liked the premise of the story, but I had a tough time staying interested in the book, and it got hard for me to keep reading it from time to time. A book like this one will have a particular type of people who will love it but for me, I did find it somewhat boring and hard to get through. There were times in the book that I was totally into what was going on, but it just wasn’t the right fit for me. This book is well written, and I could totally see something like this happening in this country. If you love politics and corrupt politicians than I think this book would be perfect for you.
Dark Money by Larry D. Thompson was an interesting book, to say the least. This book has to do with politics which is very ironic if you ask me. I liked the premise of the story, but I had a tough time staying interested in the book, and it got hard for me to keep reading it from time to time. A book like this one will have a particular type of people who will love it but for me, I did find it somewhat boring and hard to get through. There were times in the book that I was totally into what was going on, but it just wasn’t the right fit for me. This book is well written, and I could totally see something like this happening in this country. If you love politics and corrupt politicians than I think this book would be perfect for you.
January 18, 2016
I could not put this book down! "Dark Money" had me enthralled from start to finish. This is NOT one of those books that you get half-way through and it ends up collecting dust on your nightstand, you will find yourself dying to know what will happen next!!!
The complex characterizations that Larry D. Thompson created made me feel like I knew the characters personally. I found myself rooting for the villain at times!
I cannot wait to read " The Insanity Plea " next. Hope that you continue writing Larry because you have great talent !
The complex characterizations that Larry D. Thompson created made me feel like I knew the characters personally. I found myself rooting for the villain at times!
I cannot wait to read " The Insanity Plea " next. Hope that you continue writing Larry because you have great talent !
February 23, 2016
I was intrigued because of political ads claiming the use of dark money in one of our upcoming state races. I was not familiar with the term dark money, but I am now after reading the book. The book had good characters and a fast moving story line. It was set in the area of the country that I am very familiar with so that also made the read interesting. I would recommend the book to anyone interested in a fast paced political thriller.
February 25, 2016
Dark Money Politics
The very scary truth about how big money has infiltrated our politics and how the politicians hide it. The author thought out his characters well, had a great story to tell, and the best part - it was well edited. Makes reading it a pleasure. I look forward to more of his books.
The very scary truth about how big money has infiltrated our politics and how the politicians hide it. The author thought out his characters well, had a great story to tell, and the best part - it was well edited. Makes reading it a pleasure. I look forward to more of his books.
January 31, 2016
Something to think seriously about
This is the first time that I have read Mr. Thompson but it won't be the last. He has brought up some interesting ideas that are worth checking out but the story was very captivating.
This is the first time that I have read Mr. Thompson but it won't be the last. He has brought up some interesting ideas that are worth checking out but the story was very captivating.
February 19, 2016
Wow. This is non stop action and courtroom drama, never boring.
April 13, 2017
If you enjoy courtroom drama with plenty of outside action, you'll enjoy this one. A strong plot with likeable characters, this mak es so for good escapist reading.
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